I'm talking about going directly to any cash you have on hand; wallet, pocket, safe, lock box, drawer, paper bag, flour canister, cookie jar or other secret location.
I'm not talking of cash available when you go to a credit union, bank, ATM, credit card cash advance, quick loan place, family member, friend or other third party.
What do you have right now for physical handling?
Some will already have cash secured at home but won't be able to get to it because they're at work or away for whatever reason.
I'm trying to get you thinking about what you may need, when you may need it. In most circumstances either people have no cash, little cash or not enough cash should cash denial suddenly happen.
In a quick event (disaster either human or non-human made, civil strife, nuclear attack) you will be in a real bind to get to cash while all the unprepared try to do the same.
Consequences of not having fast access to cash drastically cuts your alternatives to dealing with whatever shit might hit the fan.
Some say 100, 200, 500 dollars are okay for them, while other's comfort levels are greater.
I suggest that you have at least $1,000US or equivalent. I personally chose a higher amount.
This is one of those things whereby if you need it, but don't have it, you're screwed.
Plan on the best in life and prepare for the worst. Peace of mind may be all you get from it, but you'll always have that cash cushion to tap should you need it.